What is Antique Metal?
Antique metal refers to metal objects that are at least 100 years old, valued for their craftsmanship, historical significance, and material quality. These pieces represent the metalworking techniques and artistic styles of their era, often made from brass, bronze, copper, silver, or pewter. At Arco antique metals, we specialize in preserving and authenticating these timeless treasures.
Types of Antique Metals We Handle:
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Historical Artifacts:
Including religious icons, ceremonial objects, and archaeological finds dating back centuries. These pieces often require specialized conservation to maintain their historical integrity while being displayed or studied.
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Decorative Metalwork:
From ornate Victorian brass fixtures to Art Deco bronze sculptures, we authenticate and restore decorative pieces that showcase the metalworking traditions of their periods.
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Functional Antiques:
Including antique scientific instruments, nautical brassware, and vintage kitchenware that combine historical significance with practical craftsmanship.
Are all antique metals valuable?
Not all antique metals are equally valuable. Several factors determine an item's worth:
- Age and rarity of the piece
- Maker's marks or provenance
- Condition and preservation of original surfaces
- Craftsmanship and artistic merit
- Current market demand for the style or period
Our experts at Arco antique metals can provide accurate valuations based on comprehensive assessment criteria.
Identifying Authentic Antique Metals
- Examination of patina and wear patterns consistent with age
- Analysis of construction techniques (hand-forged vs. modern manufacturing)
- Testing metal composition to verify period-appropriate alloys
- Researching maker's marks and historical records
- Comparing with documented examples from the same period
Arco antique metals as Your Trusted Antique Metal Specialist
With decades of experience in the antique metals trade, Arco antique metals has established itself as a leader in authentication, conservation, and acquisition of fine antique metal objects. Our services bridge the gap between historical preservation and modern collecting, ensuring these artifacts continue to be appreciated by future generations.
Our Conservation Process:
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Assessment and Documentation:
Every piece undergoes thorough examination to determine its age, origin, and condition. We document all findings and create a conservation plan tailored to the artifact's specific needs.
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Professional Restoration:
Using traditional metalworking techniques combined with modern conservation science, we stabilize and restore pieces while preserving their historical integrity. Our work ranges from gentle cleaning to structural repairs.
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Authentication and Certification:
Each item in our collection comes with detailed documentation of its provenance, age, and any restoration work performed, giving collectors confidence in their acquisitions.
Why Choose Arco antique metals?
- Three generations of expertise in antique metal authentication and restoration
- Recognized authority in antique metals with clients worldwide including museums, collectors, and historical societies
- Our team of master metalsmiths, conservators, and historians bring multidisciplinary expertise to every project
- Comprehensive documentation and research services to establish provenance
- State-of-the-art facilities for non-destructive testing and analysis
- Fully accredited by international conservation organizations
- Adherence to strict ethical guidelines for antique preservation
- Commitment to educating new generations about historical metalworking traditions